Young Baseball Prodigy Lee Hyun-min Showcases Dual Threat Talent
Daegu High School’s Lee Hyun-min, an 18-year-old phenom, has captured significant attention for his exceptional abilities on the baseball field. Recently, he participated as a designated player in the ‘4th Hanwha Eagles vs. University All-Star Game’ held at the Daejeon Hanwha Life Eagles Park. Initially not on the roster, Lee earned a spot due to unexpected withdrawals, joining other promising talents.
Dubbed the ‘Daegu High Otani,’ Lee has impressed with his performance as both a pitcher and a hitter. This season, he has maintained a .333 batting average with one home run and an OPS of 0.881 in seven games. As a pitcher, he boasts a 5-1 record with a 2.57 ERA in twelve appearances.
Scout Praises Versatile Skillset
Scouts have lauded Lee’s unique skillset. One scout from an KBO (Korea Baseball Organization) team commented, “He possesses the allure of a left-handed pitcher and has the necessary variety to face both left-handed and right-handed hitters.” This versatility positions Lee as a strong candidate for a high-round selection in the upcoming 2027 rookie draft.
During the All-Star Game, Lee focused solely on pitching. He delivered a strong performance against university batters, reaching a peak velocity of 144.8 km/h and striking out one batter, concluding his appearance with a clean three-up, three-down inning.
Developing a Powerful Arsenal
Lee discussed his pitching repertoire, stating, “My fastest pitch has reached around 148 km/h. I’m incorporating curveballs and sliders, and recently, I’ve been practicing a splitter that drops towards the end.” His dedication to refining his pitches is evident.
The All-Star Game served as a significant milestone for Lee. He expressed his initial disappointment at not being selected initially but felt a sense of wonder and fulfillment at the opportunity to compete alongside highly skilled players. “It’s amazing and meaningful to be able to warm up and train on the same field with friends who are the best at baseball,” he remarked with a smile.
Rigorous Training Regimen
Lee maintains a demanding schedule, balancing his academic responsibilities with intensive baseball training. After school, he dedicates his free time to an academy, traveling between Seoul and Daegu. In Seoul, he trains under Kwon Hwi, a former Doosan Bears player, and in Daegu, he works with Lee Sang-hak, a former Samsung Lions player.
He expressed gratitude for the guidance he receives. “Coach Kwon Hwi, who also has expertise in sports psychology, instills a lot of confidence in me and always offers encouraging words. I’m also learning a great deal technically from Coach Lee Sang-hak. The two coaches have similar styles and a shared history playing in the KBO, so we maintain consistent communication and they offer valuable support,” Lee shared. He acknowledged their help in overcoming a difficult period last year, stating, “Thanks to the support of the coaches, I was able to persevere.”
Focus on Present Performance
Looking ahead, Lee is focused on maintaining his current performance level and staying healthy. “I didn’t have grand ambitions at the start of the season. As I’ve improved my baseball skills and developed a more positive mindset, my desire to play professionally has naturally grown stronger,” he admitted. “However, rather than being fixated on being drafted, I believe that if I give my best in what I can do, good results will follow.” He concluded with a determined resolve, “I will work hard for the team and myself in the remaining games.”
